How to Convert a Problem Lineage to Another Format

  1. Verify the Ancestor Problems in the Problem Lineage.
  2. Remove any desires that feel weak or redundant from the Problem Lineage.
  3. Use the Problem Lineage to write a Problem Statement using this formula: [Initial problem] because [ancestor problem's current state]. To solve this, [descendent potential problem without desire phrasing].

Problem Statement from a Problem Lineage Example


Problem Statement:

Sally wants John's car to be properly maintained because her family finds it hard to arrive at important places on time. To solve this, John could create a car maintenance schedule.

From this Problem Lineage:
  • Sally wants her family to find it easy to arrive at important places on time.
    How could Sally's family find it easy to arrive at important places on time? Answer is the descendent problem below.
    • Sally wants John's car to run smoothly.
      Why does Sally want John’s car to run smoothly? Answer is the ancestor problem above.
      How could John’s car run smoothly? Answer is the descendent problem below.
      • Sally wants John's car to be properly maintained.
        Why does Sally want John’s car to be properly maintained? Answer is the ancestor problem above.
        How could John’s car be properly maintained? Answer is the descendent problem below.
        • John could want to create a car maintenance schedule.
          Why could John want to create a car maintenance schedule? Answer is the ancestor problem above.
Icon Reference:
  • = Ancestor Problem
  • = Question
  • = Initially Identified Problem
  • = Descendent Problem